Systems and methods for implanting a medical electrical lead

ABSTRACT

Devices and implantation methods utilizing subcutaneous placement into a patient are disclosed for the insertion, advancement and positioning of a subcutaneous implantable medical device (SIMD) such as a medical electrical lead. The device for implanting the SIMD is configured having a pre-biased distal curve for creating a pathway to an implant location within a substernal space.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/257,519, filed on Apr. 21, 2014 which claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/820,014, filed on May 6, 2013, the contents of both applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD

The disclosure relates generally to implantable medical devices of the type for performing monitoring of a physiologic state and/or therapy delivery. In particular, the disclosure pertains to tools for implanting medical electrical leads for the physiologic state monitoring and/or therapy delivery.

BACKGROUND

Implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) systems are used to deliver high energy electrical pulses or shocks to a patient's heart to terminate life threatening arrhythmias, such ventricular fibrillation. Traditional ICD systems include a housing that encloses a pulse generator and other electronics of the ICD and is implanted subcutaneously in the chest of the patient. The housing is connected to one or more implantable medical electrical leads that are implanted within the heart.

Traditional ICD systems that utilize transvenous leads may not be the preferable ICD system for all patients. For example, in some patients, difficult vascular access precludes placement of transvenous leads. As another example, children and other younger patients may also be candidates for non-transvenous ICD systems. Moreover, transvenous leads may become fibrosed in the heart over time, making lead revision and extraction procedures challenging.

A subcutaneous ICD system may be preferred for some patients. A subcutaneous ICD system includes a lead (or leads) that are implanted subcutaneously in the patient, i.e., between the skin and the ribs and/or sternum of the patient. As such, the subcutaneous ICD may eliminate the need for transvenous leads being within the heart. A need exists for tools and methods for delivery of non-transvenous leads to implant locations other than to the heart.

SUMMARY

Devices and methods for implantation of an implantable medical lead are disclosed. Exemplary implantation devices include a pliable sheath having an inner lumen, an elongate tool having a proximal end and a distal end configured to be slidingly disposed within the inner lumen, wherein the elongate tool includes a pre-biased curvature that is oriented to form a bend at a distal portion of the tool, and a handle coupled to the proximal end of the elongate tool.

In accordance with embodiments of this disclosure, the method for placement of an implantable medical lead in a patient's body includes forming an access point at a first location of the body, providing an implant tool including a distal end having a pre-biased curve, inserting the distal end through the access point into the substernal space, and utilizing the implant tool to advance the implantable medical lead into an implant location within the substernal space.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various exemplary embodiments of the compositions and methods according to the invention will be described in detail, with reference to the following figures wherein:

FIG. 1A is a front view of a patient implanted with implantable cardiac system;

FIG. 1B is a side view the patient implanted with implantable cardiac system;

FIG. 1C is a transverse view of the patient implanted with implantable cardiac system;

FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of an embodiment of a delivery system for implanting a medical electrical lead;

FIG. 3A depicts a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a delivery system for implanting a medical electrical lead;

FIG. 3B shows a transverse sectional view of an embodiment of a delivery system for implanting a medical electrical lead;

FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a delivery system for implanting a medical electrical lead;

FIG. 5 depicts a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a delivery system for implanting a medical electrical lead;

FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a delivery system for implanting a medical electrical lead;

FIG. 7 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a portion of a delivery system;

FIG. 8 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a portion of a delivery system;

FIG. 9 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a portion of a delivery system;

FIG. 10 illustrates a transverse cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a portion of a delivery system;

FIG. 11 illustrates a transverse cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a portion of a delivery system;

FIG. 12 illustrates a transverse cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a portion of a delivery system;

FIG. 13 depicts an alternative embodiment of a delivery system for implanting a medical electrical lead;

FIG. 14 depicts a partial side cross-sectional view of a portion of the delivery systems in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 15A shows a transverse sectional view of a portion of the delivery systems in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 15B shows a transverse sectional view of a portion of the delivery systems in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 16 is a flow chart depicting a method of implanting a lead according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIGS. 17-19 are partial perspective views that illustrate the method of implanting a lead of FIG. 16.

The following detailed description is to be read with reference to the figures, in which like elements in different figures have like reference numerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the present teachings. Skilled artisans will recognize the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of the present teachings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In this disclosure, techniques, components, assemblies, and methods for delivery of a lead into a targeted delivery site within a substernal space are described. The lead may be delivered through a surgical incision created on the skin/tissue adjacent to or below the xiphoid process (also referred to as “subxiphoid”) to form an access point to the substernal space, and advancing the lead with the aid of a delivery system through which the lead is inserted into the substernal space. The access point may also be formed at the notch (not shown) that connects the xiphoid process to the sternum. In other embodiments, the substernal space may also be accessed through the manubrium.

In this disclosure, “substernal space” refers to the region defined by the undersurface between the sternum and the body cavity but not including the pericardium. In other words, the region is posterior to the sternum and anterior to the ascending aorta. The substernal space may alternatively be referred to by the terms “retrosternal space” or “mediastinum” or “infrasternal” as is known to those skilled in the art and includes the region referred to as the anterior mediastinum. The substernal space may also include the anatomical region described in Baudoin, Y. P., et al., entitled “The superior epigastric artery does not pass through Larrey's space (trigonum sternocostale).” Surg. Radiol. Anat. 25.3-4 (2003): 259-62 as Larrey's space. For ease of description, the term substernal space will be used in this disclosure, it being understood that the term is interchangeable with any of the other aforementioned terms.

In this disclosure, the term “extra-pericardial” space refers to region around the outer heart surface, but not within the pericardial sac/space. The region defined as the extra-pericardial space includes the gap, tissue, bone, or other anatomical features around the perimeter of, and adjacent to the pericardium.

FIGS. 1A-C are conceptual diagrams of a patient 12 implanted with an example implantable cardiac system 10. FIG. 1A is a front view of patient 12 implanted with implantable cardiac system 10. FIG. 1B is a side view patient 12 with implantable cardiac system 10. FIG. 10 is a transverse view of patient 12 with implantable cardiac system 10.

Implantable cardiac system 10 includes an implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) 14 connected to a first lead 16 and a second lead 18. The first lead 16 and the second lead 18 may be utilized to provide an electrical stimulation therapy such as pacing or defibrillation. For example, lead 16 may provide defibrillation therapy while lead 18 may provide pacing therapy, or vice versa, while in other embodiments, both lead 16 and lead 18 may provide pacing therapy or defibrillation therapy. In the example illustrated in FIGS. 1A-C ICD 14 is implanted subcutaneously on the left midaxillary of patient 12. ICD 14 may, however, be implanted at other subcutaneous locations on patient 12 as described later.

Lead 16 includes a proximal end that is connected to ICD 14 and a distal end that includes one or more electrodes. Lead 16 extends subcutaneously from ICD 14 toward xiphoid process 20. At a location near xiphoid process 20, lead 16 bends or turns and extends subcutaneously superior, substantially parallel to sternum 22. The distal end of lead 16 may be positioned near the second or third rib. However, the distal end of lead 16 may be positioned further superior or inferior depending on the location of ICD 14 and other factors. Although illustrated as being offset laterally from and extending substantially parallel to sternum 22 in the example of FIGS. 1A-C, lead 16 may be implanted over sternum 22, offset from sternum 22, but not parallel to sternum 22 (e.g., angled lateral from sternum 22 at either the proximal or distal end).

Lead 16 includes a defibrillation electrode 24, which may include an elongated coil electrode or a ribbon electrode, toward the distal end of lead 16. Lead 16 is placed such that a therapy vector between defibrillation electrode 24 and a housing or can electrode of ICD 14 is substantially across the ventricle of heart 26.

Lead 16 may also include one or more sensing electrodes, such as sensing electrodes 28 and 30, located toward the distal end of lead 16. In the example illustrated in FIGS. 1A-C, sensing electrode 28 and 30 are separated from one another by defibrillation electrode 24. ICD 14 may sense electrical activity of heart 26 via a combination of sensing vectors that include combinations of electrodes 28 and 30 and the housing or can electrode of ICD 14. For example, ICD 14 may obtain electrical signals sensed using a sensing vector between electrodes 28 and 30, obtain electrical signals sensed using a sensing vector between electrode 28 and the conductive housing or can electrode of ICD 14, obtain electrical signals sensed using a sensing vector between electrode 30 and the conductive housing or can electrode of ICD 14, or a combination thereof. In some instances, ICD 14 may even sense cardiac electrical signals using a sensing vector that includes defibrillation electrode 24.

Lead 18 includes a proximal end that is connected to ICD 14 and a distal end that includes one or more electrodes. Lead 18 extends subcutaneously from ICD 14 toward xiphoid process 20. At a location near xiphoid process 20, the lead 18 bends or turns and extends superior upward in the substernal space. In one example, lead 18 may be placed in the mediastinum 36 and, more particularly, in the anterior mediastinum. The anterior mediastinum is bounded laterally by pleurae 40, posteriorly by pericardium 38, and anteriorly by sternum 22. Lead 18 may be implanted within the mediastinum such that one or more electrodes 32 and 34 are located over a cardiac silhouette of the ventricle as observed via fluoroscopy. In the example illustrated in FIGS. 1A-C, lead 18 is located substantially centered under sternum 22. In other instances, however, lead 18 may be implanted such that it is offset laterally from the center of sternum 22. Although described herein as being implanted in the substernal space, the mediastinum, or the anterior mediastinum, lead 18 may be implanted in other extra-pericardial locations.

Lead 18 includes electrodes 32 and 34 located near a distal end of lead 18. Electrodes 32 and 34 may comprise ring electrodes, hemispherical electrodes, coil electrodes, helical electrodes, ribbon electrodes, or other types of electrodes, or combinations thereof. Electrodes 32 and 34 may be the same type of electrodes or different types of electrodes. In the example illustrated in FIGS. 1A-C electrode 32 is a hemispherical electrode and electrode 34 is a ring or coil electrode.

ICD 14 may deliver pacing pulses to heart 26 via a pacing or therapy vector that includes any combination of one or both of electrodes 32 and 34 and a housing electrode or can electrode of ICD 14. For example, ICD 14 may deliver pacing pulses using a pacing or therapy vector between electrodes 32 and 34, deliver pacing pulses using a pacing or therapy vector between electrodes 32 and the conductive housing or can electrode of ICD 14, deliver pacing pulses using a pacing or therapy vector between electrodes 34 and the conductive housing or can electrode of ICD 14, or a combination thereof. In some instances, ICD 14 may deliver pacing therapy via a therapy vector between one of electrode 32 (or electrode 34) and defibrillation electrode 24. In still further instances, ICD 14 may deliver pacing therapy via a therapy vector between one of electrode 32 (or electrode 34) and one of sensing electrodes 28 or 30. ICD 14 may generate and deliver the pacing pulses to provide anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP), bradycardia pacing, post shock pacing, or other pacing therapies or combination of pacing therapies. In this manner, ATP therapy or post shock pacing (or other pacing therapy) may be provided in an ICD system without entering the vasculature or the pericardial space, nor making intimate contact with the heart.

ICD 14 may generate and deliver pacing pulses with any of a number of amplitudes and pulse widths to capture heart 26. The pacing thresholds of heart 26 when delivering pacing pulses substernally using lead 18 may depend upon a number of factors, including location of electrodes 32 and 34, location of ICD 14, physical abnormalities of heart 26 (e.g., pericardial adhesions), or other factors. The pacing thresholds needed to capture heart 26 tend to increase with shorter pulse widths. In the case of ATP, ICD 14 may deliver pacing pulses having longer pulse widths than conventional ATP pulses to reduce the amplitude of the pacing pulses. For example, ICD 14 may be configured to deliver pacing pulses having pulse widths or durations of greater than or equal to one (1) millisecond. In another example, ICD 14 may be configured to deliver pacing pulses having pulse widths or durations of greater than or equal to ten (10) milliseconds. In a further example, ICD 14 may be configured to deliver pacing pulses having pulse widths or durations of greater than or equal to fifteen (15) milliseconds. In yet another example, ICD 14 may be configured to deliver pacing pulses having pulse widths or durations of greater than or equal to twenty (20) milliseconds. Depending on the pulse widths, ICD 14 may be configured to deliver pacing pulses having pulse amplitudes less than or equal to twenty (20) volts, deliver pacing pulses having pulse amplitudes less than or equal to ten (10) volts, deliver pacing pulses having pulse amplitudes less than or equal to five (5) volts, deliver pacing pulses having pulse amplitudes less than or equal to two and one-half (2.5) volts, deliver pacing pulses having pulse amplitudes less than or equal to one (1) volt. Typically the lower amplitudes require longer pacing widths as illustrated in the experimental results. Reducing the amplitude of pacing pulses delivered by ICD 14 reduces the likelihood of extracardiac stimulation.

ICD 14 may sense electrical activity of heart 26 via a combination of sensing vectors that include combinations of electrodes 32 and 34 and the housing or can electrode of ICD 14. For example, ICD 14 may obtain electrical signals sensed using a sensing vector between electrodes 32 and 34, obtain electrical signals sensed using a sensing vector between electrode 32 and the conductive housing or can electrode of ICD 14, obtain electrical signals sensed using a sensing vector between electrode 34 and the conductive housing or can electrode of ICD 14, or a combination thereof. In some instances, ICD 14 may sense electrical activity of heart 26 via a sensing vector between one of electrode 32 (or electrode 34) and electrodes 24, 28 and 30 of lead 16. ICD 14 may deliver the pacing therapy as a function of the electrical signals sensed via one or more of the sensing vectors of lead 18. Alternatively or additionally, ICD 14 may deliver the pacing therapy as a function of the electrical signals sensed via the one or more of the sensing vectors of lead 16.

ICD 14 also analyzes the sensed electrical signals from one or more of the sensing vectors of lead 18 and/or one or more of the sensing vectors of lead 16 to detect tachycardia, such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation. In some instances, ICD 14 delivers one or more ATP therapies via the one or more pacing or therapy vectors of lead 18 in response to detecting the tachycardia in an attempt to terminate the tachycardia without delivering a defibrillation shock. If the one or more ATP therapies are not successful or it is determined that ATP therapy is not desired, ICD 14 may deliver one or more defibrillation shocks via defibrillation electrode 24 of lead 16.

The configuration described above in FIGS. 1A-1C is directed to providing ventricular pacing via lead 18. In situations in which atrial pacing is desired in addition to or instead of ventricular pacing, lead 18 may be positioned further superior. A pacing lead configured to deliver pacing pulses to both the atrium and ventricle may have more electrodes. For example, the pacing lead may have one or more electrodes located over a cardiac silhouette of the atrium as observed via fluoroscopy and one or more electrodes located over a cardiac silhouette of the ventricle as observed via fluoroscopy. A pacing lead configured to deliver pacing pulses to only the atrium may, for example, have one or more electrodes located over a cardiac silhouette of the atrium as observed via fluoroscopy. In some instances, two substernal pacing leads may be utilized with one being an atrial pacing lead implanted such that the electrodes are located over a cardiac silhouette of the atrium as observed via fluoroscopy and the other being a ventricle pacing lead being implanted such that the electrodes are located over a cardiac silhouette of the ventricle as observed via fluoroscopy

ICD 14 may include a housing that forms a hermetic seal that protects components of ICD 14. The housing of ICD 14 may be formed of a conductive material, such as titanium. ICD 14 may also include a connector assembly (also referred to as a connector block or header) that includes electrical feedthroughs through which electrical connections are made between conductors within leads 16 and 18 and electronic components included within the housing. As will be described in further detail herein, housing may house one or more processors, memories, transmitters, receivers, sensors, sensing circuitry, therapy circuitry and other appropriate components. Housing 34 is configured to be implanted in a patient, such as patient 12.

Leads 16 and 18 include a lead body that includes one or more electrodes located near the distal lead end or elsewhere along the length of the lead body. The lead bodies of leads 16 and 18 also contain one or more elongated electrical conductors (not illustrated) that extend through the lead body from the connector assembly of ICD 14 provided at a proximal lead end to one or more electrodes of leads 16 and 18. The lead bodies of leads 16 and 18 may be formed from a non-conductive material, including silicone, polyurethane, fluoropolymers, mixtures thereof, and other appropriate materials, and shaped to form one or more lumens within which the one or more conductors extend. However, the techniques are not limited to such constructions.

The one or more elongated electrical conductors contained within the lead bodies of leads 16 and 18 may be coupled to one or more of electrodes 24, 28, 30, 32, and 34. In one example, each of electrodes 24, 28, 30, 32, and 34 is electrically coupled to a respective conductor within its associated lead body. The respective conductors may electrically couple to circuitry, such as a therapy module or a sensing module, of ICD 14 via connections in connector assembly, including associated feedthroughs. The electrical conductors transmit therapy from a therapy module within ICD 14 to one or more of electrodes 24, 28, 30, 32, and 34 and transmit sensed electrical signals from one or more of electrodes 24, 28, 30, 32, and 34 to the sensing module within ICD 14.

The examples illustrated in FIGS. 1A-C are exemplary in nature and should not be considered limiting of the techniques described in this disclosure. In other examples, ICD 14, lead 16, and lead 18 may be implanted at other locations. For example, ICD 14 may be implanted in a subcutaneous pocket in the right chest. In this example, lead 16 may be extend subcutaneously from the device toward the manubrium of the sternum and bend or turn and extend subcutaneously inferiorly from the manubrium of the sternum, substantially parallel with the sternum and lead 18 may extend subcutaneously from the device toward the manubrium of the sternum to the desired location and bend or turn and extend substernally inferiorly from the manubrium of the sternum to the desired location.

In the example illustrated in FIGS. 1A-C, system 10 is an ICD system that provides pacing therapy. However, these techniques may be applicable to other cardiac systems, including cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT-D) systems, cardioverter systems, or combinations thereof.

In addition, it should be noted that system 10 may not be limited to treatment of a human patient. In alternative examples, system 10 may be implemented in non-human patients, e.g., primates, canines, equines, pigs, bovines, ovines, and felines. These other animals may undergo clinical or research therapies that may benefit from the subject matter of this disclosure.

FIGS. 2, 3A and 3B illustrate an embodiment of a delivery system 100 for implanting a medical electrical lead in a substernal space of a patient. The delivery system 100 may be utilized to create a pathway through the body of patient 12 to access an implant location within the substernal space. The delivery system 100 will be discussed in conjunction with FIGS. 2, 3A, and 3B, where FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view, FIG. 3A depicts a side cross-sectional view, and FIG. 3B shows a transverse sectional view.

The delivery system 100 includes a sheath 102, an elongate tool 104 and a handle 106. The sheath 102 includes a continuous lumen through which the elongate tool 104 is disposed. The continuous lumen may extend between openings at a proximal end and a distal end of the sheath 102 such that, in use, the sheath 102 is slidingly-disposed over the elongate tool 104 during axial advancement of the elongate tool 104 through patient 12 to facilitate an implant procedure.

In some embodiments, the sheath 102 may include a slit segment 118 that is formed proximate to the proximal end. The slit segment 118 may extend partially through or entirely along a length of the wall of sheath 102. For example, the slit segment 118 may be formed as perforations that extend from the inner to outer surface along the side wall of sheath 102. The slit segment 118 facilitates the slitting of the sheath 102 during the implant procedure. In use, the lead 18 will be advanced to the target site via the lumen of sheath 102. After placement of the lead 18, the sheath 102 may be separated from the lead so as to withdraw the sheath 102 from the patient 12 by slitting the side walls of the sheath 102 at the slit segment 118.

The inventors of the present disclosure have discovered that it may be desirable to implant the lead 18 such that it overlies the cardiac silhouette of the heart 26 as visualized through an imaging technique for effective therapy delivery by the lead 18. Yet, it may be desirable not to place the lead 18 in direct contact with the heart tissue. Therefore, the present disclosure addresses techniques for implanting the lead 18 in the substernal space underneath the sternum.

Accordingly, one embodiment of the elongate tool 104 includes a pre-biased curvature 108 that is formed along a length of the body of elongate tool 104 proximate to a distal end 110 of the elongate tool. As shown in FIG. 2, the pre-biased curvature 108 is configured such that the segment of the elongate body 104 adjacent to the distal end 110 is curved to orient the distal portion in a non-parallel plane relative to the plane defined by the proximal portion. The angle of curvature of the pre-biased curvature is predicated on orienting the section of the elongate tool 104 that is proximal to distal end 110 at an angle that is substantially perpendicular to the sternum of patient 12 while the rest of the elongate tool 104 is generally parallel to the sternum of patient 12. For example, the pre-biased curvature 108 is configured having a bend that orients the distal end 110 at an angle that is greater than 5 degrees relative to a first plane, with the first plane being defined along a central axis of the proximal portion of the elongate tool 104.

The distal end 110 is configured to provide a tactile signal in response to contact with tissue, bone or other anatomical features along a pathway from the access point into the substernal space of patient 12 to a desired implant location. For example, the pre-biased curvature 108 may be oriented such that the distal end 110 is placed in contact with the sternum, or more particularly the sternebrae.

Continuing with the example, the distal end 110 contacts the various bones along the ribcage or at the fusion point between the ribs and the sternum or with the sternum itself as the elongate tool 104 is advanced during the implantation. Responsive to the contact between the elongate tool 104 and the patient 12, distal end 110 creates a tactile signal that provides an indication of the position of the distal end 110 relative to the patient 12.

An additional benefit of the pre-biased curvature 108 is that it positions the distal end 110 away from the body cavity and the organs underneath the sternum by orienting the distal end 110 towards the sternum during navigation of the elongate tool with the substernal space.

Sheath 102 may be formed from a pliable material such as bio-compatible plastic including polyaryletheretherketone (PEEK) thermoplastic, PARYLENE® polyxylylene polymers, or other suitable polymer material. The elongate tool 104 may be formed from a rigid material such as a metal including, titanium or stainless steel. In other embodiments, the elongate tool 104 material is a biocompatible rigid material such, for example, as TECOTHANE® thermoplastic polyurethanes that may have elastic “memory” properties.

The handle 106 facilitates maneuvering of the elongate tool 104. As such, the handle 106 is coupled to the proximal end 112 of the elongate tool 104. The handle 106 may be formed from materials that are similar to those of the elongate tool 104 or from a dissimilar material. Handle 106 further includes a directional indicator 116 that provides an indication of the orientation of the pre-biased curvature 108 of the distal end 110. As will be discussed below, the handle 106 may alternatively be formed in a predefined shape, such that the shape of the handle will provide an indication of the orientation of the pre-biased curvature 108.

The directional indicator 116 provides a visual indicator of the orientation of distal end 110 positioned within the body of patient 12 from the exterior of the patient 12. In addition, the directional indicator 116 will facilitate re-orientation of the distal end 110 during navigation of the delivery system 100 within the body of patient 12, such, for example, as the navigation to the substernal space.

The delivery system 100 may deliver a fluid through a port or an opening to tissue adjacent to the port or opening. As will be discussed below in conjunction with embodiments of FIGS. 4, 5 and 6, the fluid may be held in a reservoir of the delivery system 100, or delivered from an external reservoir through the delivery system 100.

In one embodiment, elongate tool 104 may be provided with a lumen(s) and a fluid dispersion port(s) (not shown) for passage of the fluids through the lumen to be dispensed through the opening or port along the length of the elongate tool 104. Such a lumen is configured to dispense the fluid through an opening at the distal end 110. The lumen may facilitate delivery of a fluid such as a therapeutic solution, such as antibiotics or antimicrobial agents, or any other fluid solution (e.g., a contrast solution) during an implantation procedure of a medical electrical lead into the substernal space. For example, the fluid may be a medical anesthetic substance that is delivered into the tissue adjacent to the implant pathway as the elongate tool 104 is advanced through the patient.

Alternatively, or in addition, the fluid may be a contrast solution that facilitates visualization of the elongate tool 104 to verify the location of the distal end 110.

In some embodiments, a radiopaque marker element 114 may be disposed on the elongate tool 104 and/or sheath 102. In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 2, for instance, the element 114 is depicted overlaying a segment of the distal end 110. Nevertheless, it should be understood that the element 114 may overlay or coat any other section or sections of the elongate tool 104 or may alternatively overlay the entire elongate tool 104. Element 114 may be formed from a band of radiopaque material that is coupled to the distal end 110 through any suitable mechanism. In other embodiments, the distal-most portion of the elongate tool 104 may be formed from a radiopaque material. The radiopaque material may include a compound, such as barium sulphate, that is visible through a fluoroscopic imaging procedure. In use, the marker element 114 can provide a visual depiction or image of the distal end 110.

In other embodiments, one or more mapping electrodes 130 may be positioned on the sheath 102 or the elongate tool 104. The mapping electrodes 130 may be used in conjunction with, or as a substitute for the radiopaque marker element 114 to facilitate mapping of the location of the delivery system 100 within the substernal implant location. The mapping electrodes 130 are electrically coupled to a location mapping unit such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,850,610 issued to Ferek-Petric, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In one embodiment, the elongate tool 104 and sheath 102 may be sized such that the dimensions of the lumen of sheath 102 will permit insertion of elongate tool 104 and/or the lead 18 therethrough. In an example, sheath 102 may suitably be formed having a lumen having a diameter in the range of 4 French (Fr) to 12 Fr, and preferably a 10.5 Fr diameter and having a length ranging from between 6 inches and 24 inches, it being understood that the length may further be customized outside those dimensions to cater for the variation of the human anatomy from patient-to-patient. It should be appreciated that the length of the elongate tool 104 is dimensioned to be slightly longer, for example 2 inches longer, than the sheath 102. This relative difference will ensure that the distal-most portion of the tool 104, including distal end 110, is exposed distally of the distal opening of the sheath 102. For illustrative purposes, it should be appreciated that the length of the elongate tool 104 is dimensioned having a length that enables the distal end 110 of the elongate tool 104 to be positioned adjacent to the first rib within the substernal space and extend to an incision performed on the skin adjacent to the xiphoid process of patient 12, with the proximal end 112 being located external to the patient 12.

FIGS. 4-6 depict alternative embodiments of delivery systems for implanting a medical electrical lead in a substernal space of a patient. FIGS. 7, 8, 9 and 10, 11, and 12 illustrate cross sectional views of alternative embodiments of an elongate tool. In particular, FIG. 7 depicts a side cross-sectional view of any one of the elongate bodies depicted in FIGS. 4-6, and FIG. 10 shows the corresponding transverse sectional view. FIG. 8 depicts a side cross-sectional view of any one of the elongate bodies depicted in FIGS. 4-6, and FIG. 11 shows the corresponding transverse sectional view. FIG. 9 depicts a side cross-sectional view of any one of the elongate bodies depicted in FIGS. 4-6, and FIG. 12 shows the corresponding transverse sectional view.

Each of the delivery systems 200 a-c (collectively, “delivery system(s) 200”) includes an elongate tool 204 and a handle 206 a-d (collectively, “handle(s) 206”). A distal portion of the elongate tool 204 of the delivery systems 200 includes a pre-biased curvature that may correspond to the pre-biased curvature 108 described in conjunction with FIG. 2. A fluid insertion port 222 is provided on any of the handles 206 a-d that may be in fluid communication with one or more fluid lumen(s) 224 disposed within the elongate tool 204. One or more fluid dispersion ports or openings (not shown) are provided in fluid communication with the fluid lumens 224 for delivery of the fluid.

The handle 206 a is formed with a directional indicator 220 a that is integrally formed with the handle and that can be visualized on the external surface. The handle 206 a is configured to provide an indication of the orientation of the distal end of elongate tool 204. The directional indicator 220 a may comprise a projection formed on a portion of the handle 206 a that is shaped as a prominently visible protrusion. The directional indicator 220 a such as a detent, that is directed towards a plane that is parallel to the plane of the curved portion of the distal end of the elongate tool 204.

The handle 206 b illustrated in FIG. 5 includes a reservoir (not shown) that may be configured to hold a fluid for delivery through the lumen 224 of elongate tool 204. A plunger 226 may be provided to control the injection of fluid through the lumen 224.

The handle 206C illustrated in the alternative embodiment of FIG. 6 is coupled to an external reservoir that holds a fluid that is delivered through the elongate tool 204.

FIG. 13 depicts another embodiment of a delivery system 250 for implanting a medical electrical lead in a substernal space of a patient. The delivery system 250 includes a sheath 252, an elongate tool 254, a handle 256, and a sealing assembly 258. System 250 will be discussed in conjunction with FIGS. 14, 15A, and 15B, where FIG. 14 depicts a partial side cross-sectional view of the sheath 252 and sealing assembly 258, and FIGS. 15A and 15B show transverse sectional views of the sealing assembly 258.

Sheath 252 may be constructed with the distal terminal end having a tapered profile. Providing the tapered distal end reduces the trauma caused to patient 12 during advancement of the system 250 in an implant procedure. The sheath 252 includes a continuous lumen 260 through which the elongate tool 254 is disposed. The lumen 260 (shown in dashed lines) may extend distally from a proximal opening to a distal end 262 to facilitate axial advancement of the elongate tool 254 therethrough during an implant procedure.

A slit segment 264 a may be provided along the wall of sheath 252 to enable slitting of the sheath 252 during the implant procedure. The slit segment 264 a may be provided at the proximal end of the sheath 252.

In accordance with an embodiment, the elongate tool 254 is constructed with a pre-biased curvature 266 that extends proximally from the distal end 262. The pre-biased curvature 266 forms a bend at a location situated about 1 to 4 inches from the distal end 262. The angle of curvature of the pre-biased curvature may vary from between 1 degree to 20 degrees relative to an imaginary axial line formed by the proximal portion of the elongate tool, so as to orient the distal end 262 towards a different plane relative to the axial plane defined by the proximal portion of the elongate tool 254.

In use, the distal end 262 may provide a tactile signal as described in conjunction with the distal end 110 responsive to contact with tissue, bone or other anatomical features along a pathway from the access point into the substernal space of patient 12 to a desired implant location. The pre-biased curvature 266 also positions the distal end 262 away from the body cavity and the organs underneath the sternum by orienting the distal end 262 towards the sternum during navigation of the elongate tool 254 with the substernal space.

Sheath 252 may be formed from a pliable material such as bio-compatible plastic including polyaryletheretherketone (PEEK) thermoplastic, PARYLENE® polyxylylene polymers, a polyether block amide such as Pebax®, a polyolefin such as Pro-fax, or other suitable polymer material. The distal end 262 of sheath 252 may be constructed from an elastomer such as polyether block amide, or polyamide 12 and/or with a hydrophilic coating or any other material that facilitates gliding of the distal end over the elongate tool 254. The elongate tool 254 may be formed from a rigid material such as a metal including, titanium or stainless steel. In other embodiments, the material for elongate tool 254 is a bio-compatible rigid material such, for example, as TECOTHANE® thermoplastic polyurethanes that may have elastic “memory” properties.

The handle 256 is coupled to the proximal end 274 of the elongate tool 254. The handle 256 facilitates maneuvering of the elongate tool 254. Embodiments of the handle 256 may resemble the handles 106, or 206. The handle 256 is depicted having a directional indicator 268 that facilitates visualization of the orientation of distal end 262. In addition, the directional indicator 268 will facilitate re-orientation of the distal end 262 during navigation of the delivery system 250 within the body of patient 12, such, for example, as the navigation to the substernal space.

The delivery system 250 may further include a fluid lumen for delivery of a fluid through a port or an opening to tissue adjacent to the port or opening as discussed in conjunction with embodiments of FIGS. 7-12.

In other embodiments, a radiopaque marker element 270 may be disposed on the elongate tool 254. In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 13, for instance, the element 270 is depicted overlaying two segments of the distal portion. Element 254 may be formed as a band of radiopaque material that is coupled to the elongate tool through coating or any other any suitable mechanism. The material of the radiopaque marker element 270 may include a compound, such as barium sulphate, that is visible through a fluoroscopic imaging procedure. In use, the marker element 270 can provide a visual depiction or image of the distal portion of elongate tool 254 within the patient 12. In other embodiments, the marker element 270 may be coupled to the sheath 252 instead of or in addition to being coupled to the elongate tool 254.

As described above, the elongate tool 254 and the sheath 252 may be sized such that the dimensions of the sheath 252 will permit insertion of a lead 18 therethrough.

It may be desirable to prevent air from being pushed into the body cavity of the patient 12 during the implant procedure of the lead 18. Preventing the introduction of air within the body cavity facilitates the effectiveness of therapy delivery to the patient. This may further assist in establishing the threshold parameters for the patient 12 during the implant procedure.

Accordingly, the sheath 252 is provided with the sealing assembly 258 that prevents or reduces the amount of air that is pushed into the body cavity during the implant procedure. Thus, the sealing assembly 258 may be disposed proximal to a proximal opening into the lumen 260 to provide a seal into the lumen 260 of sheath 252. The sealing assembly 258 defines a passage 272 therethrough that is substantially aligned with the lumen 260. As used herein, substantially aligned refers to the central axis of the lumen 260 and the central axis of the passage 272 being adjacent to each other such that the lumen 260 and passage 272 are in fluid communication. In addition, substantially aligned refers to the alignment of the passage 272 with a portion of the lumen 260 especially because of the dimensional differences as will be discussed below.

As shown in the illustrations of FIGS. 15A and 15B, the sealing assembly 258 is configured such that passage 272 defines a first diameter D1 prior to introduction of an accessory device such as the elongate tool 254 or lead 18, and a second diameter D2 responsive to insertion of the accessory device. Hence, the diameter D1 is less than the diameter D2. In an embodiment, the sealing assembly 258 tapers distally towards the intersection of the passage 272 with the lumen 260. For example, the passage 272 may expand up to 100% of the diameter of the lumen 260 or as little as 0.1% of the diameter of the lumen 260. The sealing assembly 258 is constructed such that the diameter D1 is tailored to accommodate passage of the accessory devices, e.g., elongate tool 254 and the lead 18, while providing an interference seal to prevent ingress of air around the outer circumference of the accessory device. In order to accommodate variations in the diameters of the accessory devices, the sealing assembly 258 is formed from materials that have the necessary elongation properties to prevent permanent deformation during insertion and passage of the accessory devices. Such a material may include a relatively soft and resilient material, for example, a liquid silicone rubber (LSR) material or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) material, as compared to the material that forms the sheath 252.

The sealing assembly 258 may also be formed having a slit segment 264 b that extends from an exterior surface of the sidewall to the interior surface. The slit segment 264 b is formed such that it is continuous with the slit segment 264 a to create a continuous slit path. As has been described above, the slit segment 264 b in conjunction with slit segment 264 a will enable the sheath 252 to be separate from the lead 18 during an implant procedure.

Although the sealing assembly 258 is depicted being positioned proximate to the proximal end 274, it should be understood that the sealing assembly 258 may suitably be positioned anywhere along a length of the sheath 252. FIG. 16 is a flow chart 300 of a method of implanting a lead according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 17-19 are partial perspective views that illustrate the method 300 of implanting the lead 18 at a suitable implant location within a substernal space 6. FIGS. 18-19 depict a schematic view of the ribcage 4 of patient 12. The sternum 22 is a flat, narrow bone comprising three segments: the manubrium, the body, and the xiphoid process.

At task 302, an incision 2 is made on the skin/tissue adjacent to or below the xiphoid process (also referred to as “subxiphoid”) to form an access point sized for passage of a delivery system and/or a lead (FIG. 17) to the substernal space. The access point may also be formed at the notch (not shown) that connects the xiphoid process to the sternum. In other embodiments, the substernal space may also be accessed through the manubrium. FIG. 17 illustrates the exemplary anterior or pectoral incision 2 on patient 12. The incision location provides access to the substernal space 6 underneath the ribcage 4 and is sized to allow insertion of a delivery system for navigation of the lead. The lead e.g., lead 18, may be coupled to an implantable medical device 14 that is implantable or implanted in a subcutaneous location. As such a portion of the lead 18 may be tunneled through subcutaneous tissue from the device 14 to the incision location.

A delivery system 1000 is provided for facilitating the lead implant (304). The delivery system 1000 may be embodied as any of the aforementioned delivery systems 100, 200, 250, or combinations thereof, described in conjunction with FIGS. 2-15B that include a sheath, an elongate tool, a catheter and optionally a sealing assembly. The delivery system 1000 will be provided with the elongate tool being disposed within the lumen of the sheath.

At task 306, delivery system 1000 is inserted through the incision. As described above, the exemplary delivery systems include an elongated body having a pre-biased curvature at the distal end. At task 308, the curved distal portion is oriented such that the distal end is pointed towards the sternum (FIG. 18). A directional indicator on the handle of the delivery system may be utilized to assist in placement or to confirm the proper orientation of the distal end. The directional indicator may resemble any one of those described in conjunction with the preceding figures.

At task 310, the elongated body of the delivery system is advanced within the substernal space underneath the sternum in a generally axial direction from the xiphoid process towards the jugular notch. During the advancing of the delivery system, the distal end is navigated in direct contact or close proximity with the sternum. In some embodiments, a fluid may be delivered during the advancing of the delivery system into the substernal space at task 312. For example, the delivery system may deliver an analgesic agent or a contrast solution or any other suitable fluid. Optionally, a signal is generated that is indicative of the location of the distal end of the delivery system (314). The signal may be a tactile signal such as a sensation or sound that is generated in response to the interaction of the distal end with various segments of the sternum or ribs of the ribcage connected to the sternum. Alternatively, or in addition, an imaging procedure may be performed to obtain an image of a segment of the delivery system. To that end, the radiopaque marker elements described above may be utilized in conjunction with fluoroscopy during the advancing of the delivery system 1000 to obtain a visual indication of the directional orientation of the distal portion of the delivery system within the patient. With the aid of the signal(s), the delivery system is navigated such that a distal portion is positioned at a target implant location of the distal end of the lead (FIG. 19).

Upon confirmation that the delivery system has been positioned at the appropriate location, the elongate tool is then removed from the sheath (316). Subsequent to withdrawing the elongate tool from the lumen of the sheath, the lead is then advanced through the body along the length of the lumen of the sheath (318).

It is during this exchange of the elongate tool with the lead body that potential air can be trapped in the tubing and pushed into the body cavity of the patient in the substernal space 6. As such, a delivery system such as that disclosed in FIGS. 14-15B may be utilized in accordance with some embodiments of the method. The sealing mechanism of such a delivery system will seal the distal opening of the sheath to prevent air from filling the lumen. When such a catheter is used, advancing of the lead into the sheath will not push air (or will push only a minimal amount of air) into the substernal space 6.

At task 320, the lead is advanced to the implant location through the delivery system. In one embodiment, the elongated body of the delivery system may be retracted from the sheath, leaving the sheath positioned within the substernal space. In other embodiments, the delivery system may have a lumen for insertion of the lead through the lumen. The lead may be preloaded within the lumen of the delivery system, in some examples, prior to insertion of the delivery system into the substernal space. At task 322, the lead is positioned at the appropriate implant location. In some embodiments, the positioning may include orienting the electrodes to provide a targeted stimulation therapy and/or fixation of the lead to the tissue at the implant site.

At task 324, the sheath is withdrawn from the patient 12 and the lead remains within the substernal space. In accordance with some embodiments, a slittable sheath such as those described above may be utilized. Slitting of the sheath may be performed in accordance with conventional techniques, for example, utilizing a slitting tool. The slittable sheath facilitates withdrawal of the sheath by separating the body of the sheath from the lead to ensure that the lead placement is not impacted as the sheath is pulled distally away from the incision 2. At task 326, the lead may be coupled to a stimulation pulse generator, such as ICD 14. In other embodiments the lead may be tunneled from the access point to the ICD 14 that is positioned subcutaneously on the left midaxillary of patient 12.

As described herein, delivery systems in accordance with various embodiments are provided that facilitate implantation of a lead in the substernal space. In alternative implementations, the delivery systems may be utilized for delivery of a lead in locations other than the substernal space including but not limited to the aforementioned extra-pericardial space.

Various examples have been described. It is contemplated that the features described in the different embodiments may be combined to create additional embodiments. All such disclosed and other examples are within the scope of the following claims. 

1. (canceled) 2: A method comprising: inserting a distal end of an elongate tool through an incision in a patient into a substernal space under the sternum of the patient, the elongate tool having a proximal end and the distal end, wherein the proximal end of the elongate tool is coupled to a handle, wherein the elongate tool includes a pre-biased curvature that is oriented to form a bend at a distal portion of the tool; and advancing the elongate tool within the substernal space underneath the sternum with the distal portion oriented such that the distal end is pointed towards the sternum. 3: The method of claim 2, wherein advancing the elongate tool within the substernal space underneath the sternum with the distal portion oriented such that the distal end is pointed towards the sternum comprises advancing the elongate tool within the substernal space underneath the sternum with the distal end in contact with the sternum. 4: The method of claim 2, wherein the incision in the patient is adjacent to or below the xiphoid process of the patient. 5: The method of claim 4, wherein advancing the elongate tool within the substernal space underneath the sternum comprising advancing the distal end of the elongate tool within the substernal space underneath the sternum in a generally axial direction from the xiphoid process towards a jugular notch. 6: The method of claim 2, further comprising receiving, by the handle, a tactile signal generated by the distal end of the elongate tool during advancement of the elongate tool within the substernal space. 7: The method of claim 2, wherein the handle includes a directional indicator configured to provide an indication of the orientation of the distal portion extending from the pre-biased curvature. 8: The method of claim 2, wherein at least a portion of the elongate tool is within an inner lumen of a sheath when the elongate tool is advanced within the substernal space, the method further comprising: removing the elongate tool from the sheath; and subsequently advancing a distal portion of an implantable medical lead through the inner lumen of the sheath while the sheath is located within the substernal space. 9: The method of claim 8, wherein the sheath comprises a splittable sheath, the method further comprising splitting the sheath to remove the sheath from the implantable medical lead while the implantable medical lead is within the substernal space. 10: The method of claim 8, wherein a distal portion of the sheath includes a radiopaque marker. 11: The method of claim 2, wherein the distal portion of the elongate tool includes a radiopaque marker. 12: The method of claim 11, wherein the radiopaque marker comprises at least one of a fluorovisible material or barium sulfate. 13: The method of claim 2, wherein the elongate tool ranges in length from 6 inches to 24 inches. 14: A substernal delivery system comprising: a pliable sheath having an inner lumen; an elongate tool having a proximal end and a distal end configured to be slidingly disposed within the inner lumen, wherein the elongate tool includes a pre-biased curvature that is oriented to form a bend at a distal portion of the tool, wherein the distal portion of the elongate tool includes a radiopaque marker; and a handle coupled to the proximal end of the elongate tool. 15: The delivery system of claim 14, wherein the radiopaque marker comprises a fluorovisible material.
 16. The delivery system of claim 14, wherein the radiopaque marker comprises barium sulfate. 17: The delivery system of claim 14, wherein the elongate tool ranges in length from 6 inches to 24 inches. 18: The delivery system of claim 14, wherein the handle further includes a directional indicator configured to provide an indication of the orientation of the pre-biased curvature. 19: The delivery system of claim 18, wherein the directional indicator comprises a marking fixedly coupled to the handle, the marking being configured to provide a visual indication of a directional orientation of the distal portion. 20: The delivery system of claim 18, wherein the directional indicator is integrally formed on a portion of the handle in a plane that is parallel to a plane of the pre-biased curvature. 21: The delivery system of claim 14, wherein the elongate tool includes a fluid dispersion port disposed proximate to the distal end, the fluid dispersion port being in fluid communication with a fluid insertion port disposed at the proximal end. 